Macedonia sees 3.5% increase in health insurance premiums

MACEDONIA – The city will see about a $56,000 increase (3.5 percent) in premiums for its medical, prescriptions, dental and vision insurance coverage for employees in 2022, with the total being about $1.64 million.

At its Nov. 11 meeting, Council authorized the mayor to enter into contracts with the Ohio Government Benefit Cooperative to provide medical coverage and Anthem to provide dental and vision coverage for eligible city employees.

Human resources director Annette Smith said the city has spent a lot of time getting the new numbers in place. "Initially, they were very high, but we got them down to a reasonable amount," she said.

The premium for medical coverage is about $1.56 million (3.77 percent increase), with dental at $65,751 (2.3 percent increase) and vision at $14,631 (15 percent decrease). Total premiums in 2021 are about $1.59 million.

Councilwoman Jessica Brandt thanked Smith for her efforts in putting together the insurance package.

"I know it's a monumental task every year, but you always keep the health and safety of our staff in mind, and do the best you can with our residents' tax dollars," she said.

OTHER BUSINESS

Council advanced the 2022 appropriations ordinance to third reading, with action likely to be taken at the Dec. 9 meeting. The previously scheduled Nov. 25 session was canceled because it falls on Thanksgiving.

The appropriations show $16.97 million ($2.98 million in transfers and advances) in the general fund and $32.95 million ($4.9 million in transfers and advances) in all funds.

Mayor Nick Molnar reported the city will select a criteria architect soon to begin preparing plans for the new service department facility. "When done, it will be a great addition to our facilities," he said.

Molnar again emphasized that residents should not rake leaves onto streets. He added many residents are doing so, and could face citations if they continue.

The mayor announced restrooms soon will be constructed at Veterans Memorial Park, and he wished the Nordonia High marching band good luck in a national competition over the weekend in Indianapolis.

Service director Leon Karas reported his department hopes to have two new trucks ready for snowplowing duties in early December.

City engineer Joe Gigliottai reported a new sign displaying tenants at the Crossings at Golden Link is being erected at the right-in, right-out access road off Route 8.

Parks-Rec director Jason Chadock announced a holiday lighting event will take place Dec. 5 at the City Center, and Fire Chief Brian Ripley said Highland Road west of Route 8, which was shut down for several weeks for a bridge replacement, is now open.

IT director Kyle Collins reported the city is creating a new website, which should be launched in about six months. Police Lt. Vince Yakopovich announced a nine-year veteran officer recently resigned to focus on operating his own business.

Contact the newspaper at [email protected].